Radishes are extremely versatile and can be enjoyed in very many delicious dishes. They’re a group of root vegetables, light in colour with a crunchy flesh and a spicy-peppery kick to their taste. They vary in shape and can be found in various colours – pink, black, purple and more. Radishes come from the Raphanus sativus species, with red radish being the most common type. Curious to know what this trusty veggie root can do for you? Then keep reading on for Radish: Top 5 Health Benefits!
1. Helps Reduce Risk of Diabetes
Radishes can help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Consumption enhances the body’s production of adiponectin, a hormone that protects against insulin resistance, improving glucose uptake and lowering blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that radishes directly improve insulin response and glucose metabolism.
2. Radish Helps Control Blood Pressure
With 135 milligrams per ½ cup serving, radishes are high in potassium which regulates and helps keep fluids in the body balanced, whilst supporting the electrical activity of the heart. They also support the production of collagen which lowers your blood pressure and keeps blood vessels healthy.
3. Improves Immunity
Radishes are a good source of vitamin C, providing 14% of your recommended daily allowance. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that prevents the development of free radicals in the body, thereby preventing age-related cell damage.
4. Good for Skin
Radishes, as mentioned above have a good amount of vitamin C, with 15mg per serving, which helps to fight dryness and rashes on our skin. Their high water content also boosts your hydration levels, helping to hydrate the skin, whilst also giving you more energy and improving your mood.
5. Fights Cancer
Being a cruciferous vegetable, radishes contain compounds that can be broken down into isothiocyanates, when combined with water. These isothiocyanates rid the body of cancer-producing properties, and protect against genetic mutations. Isothiocyanates also help to detoxify the liver and heal liver damage, flushing out toxins.
